Kaunertal Nature Days 2026

1. Climate Hike — Experiencing the Gepatschferner (2,840 m)

📅18.07.2026
Meeting point: 06.30 at the Quellalpin Kaunertal
Shared transfer to the Fernergries
Cost: free
Prerequisites: good physical fitness and sure-footedness

Tour description:
This impressive summer climate hike takes us directly to the largest glacier in the Eastern Alps — the Gepatschferner. Already on the ascent via the Wannet, the dramatic changes the glacier landscape has undergone in recent years become clearly visible.

Upon reaching the glacier tongue, we step onto the eternal ice — equipped with crampons and harness — and gain our first experience of high-alpine terrain. Between crevasses, glacier mills, and towering ice breaks, the dynamic force of the glacier can be felt up close.

After crossing the impressive glacier tongue, the route continues to the Rauhekopfhütte. Following a short refreshment stop, we ascend a little further onto the expansive glacier plateau of the Gepatschferner — a place where the impact of climate change is particularly striking.

The descent follows the ascent route back into the valley.

Quick Facts:
Starting point: 1,930 m
Highest point: 2,840 m
Elevation: ↑ 970 m | ↓ 970 m
Duration: approx. 8 hours
Distance: approx. 11.6 km

2. Climate Hike - Madatschjoch (3,020 m)

📅01.08.2026
Meeting point: 06.00 at the Quellalpin Kaunertal
Shared transfer to the Verpeilalm
Cost: free
Prerequisites: good physical fitness and sure-footedness

Tour description:
From the Verpeilalm, we ascend towards the Verpeilhütte, passing the imposing Madatschtürme — the landmark of the Kaunergrat — and continuing on to the Madatschjoch (3,020 m). From the pass, the descent leads us via a rope-secured path to the Kaunergrathütte.

Quick Facts:
Starting point: 1,800 m
Highest point: 3,020 m
Elevation: ↑ 1,250 m | ↓ 1,400 m
Duration: approx. 7 hours
Distance: approx. 10.8 km

3. Gepatschferner Experience - Rauhekopfhütte & Brandenburger Haus (with overnight stay)

📅05.-06.09.2026
Meeting point: 07.00 in the Fernergries
Cost: €50.00 per person (plus overnight stay and meals at the Brandenburger Haus)

Tour description:
The Gepatschferner - the largest glacier in the Eastern Alps - impresses with its vast ice landscape, deep crevasses, and a fascinating world of snow and ice in constant motion. Here, the impact of climate change is visible and tangible in a way that few other places can match.

This two-day climate hike leads from the Kaunertal to the Rauhekopfhütte and onwards across the impressive Gepatschferner to the Brandenburger Haus, where we spend the night. On the second day, the route returns to the Kaunertal.

The exact route will be determined by the mountain guides based on current conditions.

Highlights:

• An immersive experience in the world of glaciers
• Fascinating insights into the impact of climate change in the high mountains
• Two-day tour with mountain hut overnight stay

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General information:

Equipment:
Sturdy mountain boots, hiking trousers, hiking jacket, insulating jacket, change of clothes, gloves, hat, sunglasses, sun cream

Registration:
Deadline one week before the tour

Price:
Free of charge for guests and locals unless otherwise stated